Society for the Furtherance of Critical Philosophy
The Socratic method encourages reflection and independent, critical thinking. On one level, a Socratic Dialogue is a collaborative attempt to find the answer to a fundamental question. It is a form of co-operative philosophical enquiry. On another level it is entirely individual, rooted in concrete personal experience, and contributing to the formation of one’s own personal philosophy.
It is accessible to all, and no prior philosophical training is needed to participate.
The attempt to reconnect practical philosophical philosophy with its Socratic roots began with the German philosopher and teacher, Leonard Nelson. Launched in 1922, Socratic Dialogue grew out an era of dogmatism. More about the Socratic Method is here.
With the theme Philosophy in the Community the International Colloquium successfully took place in Durham 12-15th September 2024, with over 40 delegates from 10 different nations taking part with some lively discussion. Report, photographs, and a video here.
Forthcoming events
We are running a series of dialogues around the UK in 2025.
A full list of events, UK and international, is here.
Some of our past events with reports are listed under Activities.
Recent Dialogues
October 2024
London Dialogues:
‘What makes a good life?’ facilitated by Julie-Marie Ffrench Devitt
‘In what circumstances is it right to stop helping?’ facilitated by Jayne Crow
Report and photographs
February 2024
When thought takes Flight
Sheffield
Collaboration with SFCP and Think together Sheffield in the Millennium Gallery – 8th February 7pm to 10pm
Report and photographs
January 2024
When should we use artificial intelligence?
London
‘When should we use artificial intelligence (AI)?’ Facilitated by Anna Bromley
Artificial intelligence (AI) is a much-discussed topic at present, with citizens, businesses and governments debating its potential for good and harm.
Report and photographs
News
Dr Rene Saran, a Trustee, Chair and Secretary of the Society
for the Furtherance of Critical Philosophy, died May 2023 aged 101. Tributes to Rene Saran
Celebrating Rene’s 100th Birthday July 2021
Pat Shipley, a friend and Trustee of SFCP, died in July 2021. Dorothy Moir, a Trustee and friend of Pat’s, wrote this tribute.
Contact
If you’d like to join our mailing list or for a dialogue, welcome!
galangal19@yahoo.co.uk (Dr. Julie-Marie ffrench Devitt)
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